Phacelia viscida
annualN. America Native

Sticky Phacelia

Phacelia viscida

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

Expertly Curated
Real-Time Pricing
Loved by Designers

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Annual

Height

24 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Annual

Native To

California

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Phacelia viscida is a California native annual wildflower known for its striking deep blue to purple flowers and its ability to attract a wide range of native bees. The foliage and stems are covered in sticky glands, giving it the common name 'Sticky Phacelia'.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesProvides fragrant, attractive flowers that attract pollinators.
Practical UsesErosion control on slopes due to its dense root system.
Ecological BenefitsSupports native bee populations and beneficial insects.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds into well-drained soil in early spring for best germination.
  2. Mist cuttings lightly to maintain soil moisture during propagation.
  3. Water regularly but avoid waterlogging; keep soil moist during growing season.
  4. Fertilize with a balanced organic fertilizer every 4-6 weeks.
  5. Prune lightly after flowering to encourage bushier growth.
  6. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Use fresh seeds and provide full sun for vibrant blooms and healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water consistently during dry periods 🌱
  • Deadhead spent flowers to prolong blooming
  • Apply organic fertilizer in spring and midsummer

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
  • Don’t disturb roots during flowering
  • Refrain from using chemical pesticides excessively

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Harvest
Plant

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Wildflower meadow with fragrant bloomsSunny border with aromatic foliageErosion control on slopes

Companion Plants

California poppy Lupine Yarrow Cosmos Coreopsis

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Sticky Phacelia questions

Is Sticky Phacelia deer resistant?

Yes β€” Sticky Phacelia is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Sticky Phacelia bloom?

Sticky Phacelia typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone β€” Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Sticky Phacelia need full sun?

Sticky Phacelia does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Sticky Phacelia drought tolerant?

Yes β€” once established (usually after the first full season), Sticky Phacelia handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.

Keep exploring

Grow Sticky Phacelia with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.

Download Sow on the App StoreGet Sow on Google Play